Light array maintenance system and method

ABSTRACT

A lighting system includes a plurality of LED lights having at least two different color LED lights. A controller is coupled to the LED lights for independently controlling the intensity of sets of different color LED lights. A program stored on a storage device is operable on the controller to control the intensity of each of the different sets of different color LED lights to produce light representative of color and intensity changes of outdoor daylight conditions.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/722,453, filed Mar. 11, 2010 and issued on May 14, 2013 as U.S. Pat.No. 8,441,214, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/159,345 (entitled LIGHT ARRAY MAINTENANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD,filed Mar. 11, 2009), and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/263,312 (entitled LIGHT ARRAY MAINTENANCE SYSTEMAND METHOD, filed Nov. 20, 2009) all of which applications areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Light emitting diodes have long been used individually or groupedtogether as background or indicating lights in electronic devices.Because of the efficient light production, durability, long life, andsmall size light emitting diodes were ideal for electronic applications.

Higher powered light emitting diodes also are used in applications wherea stronger emission of light is needed. In some high intensityapplications, multiple fixed sets of serially connected light emittingdiodes, each set having a common voltage drop are used to obtain desiredluminescence. The sets are formed along rails or bars, where an entirerail or bar may be replaced by the manufacturer if any portion of therail becomes defective. If the manufacturer is located a long distance,or has a backlog of repairs to make, it can take a long time to obtainsuch a repair. Such applications may be used indoors or outdoors. Thelight emitting diodes electrically connected operate as a singleapplication, sealed and protected as a single linear group. Replacementof the whole group of fixed light emitting diodes is needed if just onediode fails.

In outdoor settings, an array of light emitting diodes may consist ofmultiple sets of light emitting diodes. One or more of the diodes may beinoperative, due to either wearing out, defective manufacturing, orvandalism. It may be difficult to detect whether one or more lightemitting diodes are inoperative due to their brightness. Further,organizations, such as municipalities may have many such arraysoperating over a wide geographic are. While reports from citizens may becollected to help identify light emitting diodes that need replacing, itis difficult to ensure that all inoperative light emitting diodes arereplaced. Maintenance thus becomes a difficult proposition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a matrix of light emitting diode modulesaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a top view of a matrix including sockets for light emittingdiode modules according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a top view of a circuit board for mating with the matrix ofFIG. 2B according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a high intensity light emitting diodemodule according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 4 is block schematic representation of wired sockets for a matrixof modules according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block cross sectional view of a module supported in a socketaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block cross sectional view of a module having a differentconnection mechanism to provide a sealed connection with a socketaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a block cross sectional view of a module having a differentconnection mechanism to provide a sealed connection with a socketaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a block cross sectional view of a module having a differentconnection mechanism to provide a sealed connection with a socketaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a top view of connectors on a board for providing electricalconnection to a module according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a block cross section view of an alternative module supportedin a socket according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a block cross section view of an alternative module forplugging into a board according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a top view of a connector and side view of a module forplugging into the connector according to a further example embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a lighting system according to an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method of collecting dataaccording to an example embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method of controlling thelighting system corresponding to the collected data according to anexample embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a lighting system having multiple lightarrays according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart illustrating a method of controlling thelighting system having multiple light arrays according to an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an example computer system forimplementing one or more methods according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a light fixture that providescommunications related to light replacement according to an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 20 is a block circuit diagram illustrating a light socket withdetection circuitry according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a remote control device for programminglight fixtures according to an example embodiment.

FIGS. 22, 23, 24, and 25 illustrate perspective views of a light moduleand various aspects of a light fixture that utilizes replaceable lightmodules according to example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way ofillustration specific embodiments which may be practiced. Theseembodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilledin the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and that structural, logical andelectrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of thepresent invention. The following description of example embodiments is,therefore, not to be taken in a limited sense, and the scope of thepresent invention is defined by the appended claims.

The present application describes several embodiments of light fixtures,some of which have arrays of replaceable light emitting diode modules.Maintaining light fixtures includes identifying a high intensity lightemitting diode that needs replacing in a light fixture having a highvolume light emitting diode lighting array having a plurality ofelectrical sockets supported by a matrix and forming a matrix ofelectrical sockets. An ID of the light fixture is provided, and thelight fixture transmits the ID and an indication that a light emittingdiode needs replacing. The ID uniquely identifies the light fixture andhas an associated location of the light fixture.

Further embodiment are described that display light in accordance with aprogram that may be representative of a pre-recorded outdoor lightsequence, such as a day in the sun with clouds drifting past the sun.The result is a simulated day in the sun. The natural variations incolor and intensity of the light provided by such a recording or programmay provide a relaxing environment. Light can affect the production ofmelatonin by the pineal gland in humans. Melatonin can be important inregulating circadian rhythms and sleep cycles. Natural sunlight,including variations, may affect melatonin production. By simulatingsuch natural sunlight, productivity of office and other indoor workersmay be improved.

Replaceable Module Embodiments

In one set of embodiments involving arrays of replaceable light emittingdiodes, a high intensity light emitting diode light fixture forproducing large volume of light for lighting large areas, such asparking lots, parking ramps, highways, streets, stores, warehouses, gasstation canopies, etc., is illustrated in FIG. 1 generally at 100. FIG.1 is a top view of light fixture 100, which includes a rigid matrix 105.Multiple high intensity light emitting diodes may be encapsulated intomodules 110, which may be seen in FIG. 1 through cylindrical coolingstructures 120. In this view, the modules provide light pointing awayfrom the surface of the figure.

In one embodiment, the cooling structures 120 and modules 110 aresupported by the matrix 105, which is formed of aluminum in oneembodiment to provide both strength and heat conduction to help keep themodules 110 cool. A board 130, such as a circuit board, may be placedintegrated with the cooling structures 120 and provides appropriateelectrical conductors between the modules 110. In one embodiment, board130 may be a standard circuit board with metallization for forming theconductors. In one embodiment, a frame 140 may be formed around thematrix and be integrated with the matrix.

The matrix and cooling structures 120 may be formed of aluminum or othermaterial that provides adequate structural support, is light weight, andconducts heat well. A plurality of electrical sockets 150 may be formedon the matrix between the cooling structures and are secured to theboard 130 in one embodiment, forming a matrix of electrical sockets 150that may be electrically interconnected in two dimensions by the board130. One or more light emitting diode modules 110 may be individuallyremovable and replaceable within any individual electrical socket withinthe matrix, which may be rigid in one embodiment and may be securedwithin the matrix 105 by an epoxy or other filler material havingsuitable heat conducting and retentive properties to ensure the board130 is securely held in place over the sockets 150.

As may be seen in FIG. 1, more sockets than can accommodate modules maybe provided in various patterns. The additional sockets provideflexibility for a multitude of lighting needs. In one embodiment, thesockets may provide for the use of an optimum number of modules toprovide a high volume of lighting for outdoor applications, such asparking lots, parking ramps, highways, streets, stores, warehouses, gasstation canopies. For lower volume lighting applications, fewer modulesmay be used in fewer sockets. For each configuration of sockets withmodules, the electrical connections may be modified to provide a propervoltage for each module.

FIG. 2A is a top view of matrix 105 including sockets 150 for lightemitting diode modules according to an example embodiment. As shown thematrix 105, with cooling structures 120 and sockets 150 have some depthto them that provides both structural support may be formed of heatconducting material. The sockets are disposed between the coolingstructures such that heat is easily conducted to the cooling structures.

FIG. 2B is a top view of circuit board 130 for mating with the matrix ofFIG. 2B according to an example embodiment. The board 130 has openingscorresponding to cooling structures 120 in one embodiment, and sets ofconnectors corresponding to the sockets when coupled to the matrix.

Each individual light emitting diode module as shown in further detailat 300 in FIG. 3 may include a base 310 and a light emitting diode 320.The base may be configured and arranged for fitted electrical engagementwithin the electrical socket 150. Light emitting diode modules 300 mayfit in the electrical sockets 150 though multiple different types ofconnections. In various embodiments, the light emitting diode 320 may bedifferent colors with most colors being currently commerciallyavailable.

The base 310 of the light emitting diode module 300 may include heatdissipating radial fins 330 to dissipate heat away from the electricalsocket 150 and leads or contacts 340 for coupling to connectors on board130 for providing power to the light emitting diode 320. Because thelight emitting diode module 300 may be used for both inside and outsideapplications, some embodiments are able to withstand a large ambienttemperature range provided it is not too warm for proper operation, andmay also withstand inclement weather conditions including rain, snow,ice, dust, winds up to about 150 miles per hour, etc., while stillefficiently emitting light. The heat dissipating fins 330 may extendradially from a top of the base 310, drawing heat away from the lightemitting diode 320 and acting as a heat sink to prevent damage to thelight emitting diode or the surrounding components. The fins may coupleto a heat fin ring 350 which may provide stability and a means ofpermitting ease of handling when assembling or replacing modules 300 insockets 150.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram schematic representation of a connector boardfor a high intensity light emitting diode array shown generally at 400.Openings in the board for the cooling structures are not shown. In oneembodiment, a board 410 is provided with a positive connector 415 and anegative connector 420 for connection to a power source and driver, notshown. Positive connector 415 is electrically coupled via a connector425 to a first socket 430. Given a supply of 24 volts across connectors415 and 420, ten sockets are serially electrically coupled, ending withsocket 435, which in turn, is coupled via connector 440 to negativeconnector 420. These connections, together with intermediate serialconnections to eight other sockets provides a voltage drop of 2.4 voltsDC for each light emitting diode plugged into the socket. This ensuresthat each light emitting diode will receive the proper voltage forproper operation.

If a different supply level is provided, and/or different light emittingdiodes are used with different voltage drops, it is a simple matter todivide the supply by the voltage drop to determine how many socketsshould be connected serially. The board may then be reconfiguredconsistent with the number of sockets needed. As shown in FIG. 4, thereare four such sets of serially connected sockets, each being coupledbetween the positive and negative connectors 415 and 420. Many otherdifferent configurations are possible.

In still further embodiments, adaptive power supplies may be used, andthe number of modules in series may be varied with the supply adaptingto the proper output required to drive the modules. All sockets may beactive with such drivers and modules plugged in as desired. In someembodiments, modules may be removed or added in series if needed to becompatible with the supply and driver circuitry. All the sockets may bewired in series in one embodiment. Plugs to short circuit open socketsmay be used to maintain the series connection, or suitable bypasscircuitry may be used to maintain a series connection if modules insockets have malfunctioned, or sockets are not used in some lightingapplications.

In one embodiment, the current sockets are arranged in an oval shape,but many other shapes may be easily used. The board 410 may be suitablyshaped to conform to the sockets to provide a shape suitable foraesthetic design purposes. Similarly, the matrix 105 as shown in FIG. 1may also take many different shapes, from rectangular or circular asshown to just about any shape desired, such as “u” shaped or kidney beanshaped to name a few. Further, elongated shapes of one or more rows ofsockets may be provided.

The matrix 105 and board 130 in some embodiments may be made of anyweather resistant metal such as aluminum or other material suitable fordissipating heat. In one embodiment, the electrical sockets are in auniformly disbursed triangular matrix in relation to each other and maybe part of a cast matrix 105.

In one embodiment, the electrical sockets 150 may be designed toaccommodate a removable and replaceable light emitting diode module withdifferent connection types including, but not limited to, screw-in orEdison type connections, a bayonet-type connection, and snap-in orfriction connection as illustrated at 500 in FIG. 5.

In FIG. 5, a module 505 is secured via conducting pins 510, 515 intomating connectors 520, 525 in a board 530. The conducting pins andmating connectors provide for a snap-in or friction connection thatholds the module 505 securely within a socket 535. In one embodiment,the mating connectors 520 and 525 may be provided with guides 526 thatensure that the pins are properly inserted and guided into the femalemating connectors 520, 525, which may be made of brass in one embodimentand be spring loaded from the sides to retentatively engage the pins510, 515. The female connectors may extend partly above the board, orwithin the board in various embodiments. When within the board, theboard essentially has a larger opening than the diameter of the pins,and narrows to the point of the snap-in or friction connection portionof the matting connectors.

In one embodiment, a sealing member such as a ring, disk or washer 540is positioned between the module 505 and a surface of the socket 535.The sealing member 540 is compressed when the module 505 is fullysecured by the pins and mating connectors to provide a water tight sealand protect the electrical connections from elements which might degradethe electrical contact formed by such connections. In variousembodiments, the sealing member may be formed of rubber, latex, Teflon,silicon rubber or like compressible material. To provide for largertolerances with respect to the thickness of the board 530 and thedistance of the connectors 520, 525 from the module when seated in thesocket, the compressible sealing member may be formed with a hollowcenter in some embodiments. In further embodiments, the sealing memberoperates to provide a seal over a wide depth of compression.

In a further embodiment, plugs may be formed in the same shape as module505, having pins that mate with the mating connectors 520, 525 toprovide a seal around sockets that are not used for operational modules.The pins of such plugs may be electrically isolated from each other toensure that no short circuits occur, or may provide a short circuit toproperly maintain a series connection in a pre-wired string of sockets.Such plugs ensure integrity of all electrical connections in the boardwhen properly used in all sockets not containing modules 505.

The ability to easily remove and replace modules in a sealing mannerfacilitates maintenance and repair of high intensity large volume matrixlighting solutions. Each individual light emitting diode module may beremoved from an individual socket within the matrix. Because theindividual light emitting diode modules are individually replaceable, ifone module fails there is no need to replace an entire bundle or groupof electrical sockets or modules. Simple removal and replacement of thefailed module may be quickly performed. Furthermore, light emittingdiode modules emitting different colors may be rearranged within thematrix to produce different color arrangements without replacement ofthe entire bundle of electrical sockets or modules.

Module 505 also illustrates a lens 550 coupled to the light emittingdiode within module 505 and providing a protective seal. The lens 550may be placed on and adhered to a filling material surrounding theactual light emitting diode. As the filling material solidifies, thelens may be securely fastened to the filling material. Many differenttypes and shapes of lenses may be used. For large area high intensitylighting applications, the lens may be shaped to provide directionallighting, or a widely dispersed beam of light such that when all themodules in an array are properly oriented, a desired pattern of light isprovided to light a large area, such as a parking lots, parking ramps,highways, streets, stores, warehouses, gas station canopies. Similarly,different lenses may be used for many different applications, such asfor forming spot lights, narrow beams from each module may be desired.

Module 505 may also be provided with guides 545, which along with matingguides in a socket, ensure that the module is inserted into the socketin a desired orientation. In one embodiment, the guides 545 may beridges extending outward from the module and mating with grooves in themodule to provide a guide. In further embodiments, the grooves may be onthe module with mating ridges on the socket. Many different shapes andcombinations of grooves and ridges may be provided in variousembodiments.

In yet a further embodiment, board 530 may be formed with a fillingmaterial 560, and a further board 565. Such a combination provides aseal for the conductors on the board and protects them from theelements.

FIG. 6 is a further embodiment 600 of a screw in type of connector,commonly referred to as an Edison connector. A sealing member is alsoprovided. In this embodiment, a simple cylinder may be used as thesocket, with the top portion of the module with the sealing membersimply compressed against the tope of the socket when the module isfully engaged in a retentive relationship with the socket.

FIG. 7 is a further embodiment 700 of a bayonet type connector, alsohaving a sealing member that is similarly compressed.

FIG. 8 is an alternative embodiment 800 to the module 505 of FIG. 5,where the sealing member 805 is positioned over the base 810 of module800. The pins are also similar in that they provide friction fit withconnectors on a board.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram schematic view of the bottom of a socket 900,into which pins of the modules may be inserted. Six openings 905 areillustrated, representative of connectors for three differently orientedsets of pins. Also shown are grooves for providing a guide so modulesare properly inserted. In one embodiment, the board may have three ormore different sets of wiring to provide different circuits fordifferent types of LED modules, such as different color LEDs. Thedifferent circuits may then be used to independently control thedifferent color LEDs in a desired manner, and as further discussed belowto provide different color and intensity light. The differently orientedsets of pins along with grooves in one embodiment are formed to ensurethat a light of one color may only be plugged into a socket in a desiredmanner to connect to the desired circuit. In further embodiments,signals to control of lights may be multiplexed onto one or more controllines to provide separate circuits for desired control of lights withouthaving to plug them into the socket in different alignments. Stillfurther, sockets may be prewired for a certain type of LED module. Instill further embodiments, sockets may be twisted or otherwise orientedwithin a socket to make contact to a desired circuit.

In one embodiment, a circuit board may have 120 available sockets formodules, to allow flexibility in positioning modules. In someembodiments, different types of modules, such as different color modulesmay be interspersed throughout the board. In one example, 90 white lightmodules, and 30 yellow light modules may be properly inserted intosockets and independently controllable, either by separate circuits, orpredetermined wiring. Many other different combinations and totalnumbers of sockets per circuit board may be used in further embodiments,including boards that support 60 to 90 sockets, 90 to 120 sockets, and120-160 sockets for example.

FIG. 10 is an alternative embodiment of a module 1000 plugged into asocket 150. In this embodiment, socket 150 has a flange 1005 at a modulereceiving end that operates to provide a surface for compression ofsealing material 1010 between flange 1005 and a ring 1015 formed on abase of module 1000. Socket 150 also has a second flange 1020 formed ona second end that abuts board 1025. In this embodiment, pins 1027, 1028extend a short distance from a body 1030 of module 1000 to mate withfemale connectors 1035 and 1040. The female connectors 1035, 1040 mayextend beyond the circuit board into the compressible adhesive material1045 in some embodiments.

FIG. 11 shows an alternative module 1100, wherein the female connectors1105 and 1110 extend significantly into a compliant adhesive material1115 between boards 1120 and 1125. The material 1115 provides additionalspring force for maintaining retentive force on the pins via femaleconnectors 1105 and 1110. In one embodiment, the material 1115 may be aliquid rubber, latex, or silicon type material that is pliable andprovides good adhesion over the boards.

FIG. 12 is a top view of multiple sets of female connectors 1210 on aboard 1215 for mating with pins of a module 1230. Grooves 1220 are alsoprovided in the sides of the socket corresponding to the connectors toprovide for guiding the module 1230 having a pair of mating ridges 1235.In one embodiment, the module may be coupled to one of three differentsets of connectors by rotating the module and inserting it. Thepositions in which the module may be inserted may be referred to as A, Band C in one embodiment. Position A may correspond to wiring on theboard such that 80 modules may be inserted into sockets to providelighting for an application requiring that amount of light. Position Bmay accommodate 120 modules, while position C may accommodate 160modules. The particular numbers of modules may be varied considerably indifferent embodiments. In one embodiment, two grooves 1220 may beprovided, and rotated to different positions to ensure that the moduleis properly inserted depending on the application desired. Templates mayalso be used for each different configuration to help a user insertmodules into the proper sockets. After use of the template, theremaining open sockets may have plugs inserted to ensure that thelighting fixture is properly sealed.

Light Programs

The functions or algorithms described herein may be implemented insoftware or a combination of software and human implemented proceduresin one embodiment. The software may consist of computer executableinstructions stored on computer readable media such as memory or othertype of storage devices. Further, such functions correspond to modules,which are software, hardware, firmware or any combination thereof.Multiple functions may be performed in one or more modules as desired,and the embodiments described are merely examples. The software may beexecuted on a digital signal processor, ASIC, microprocessor, or othertype of processor operating on a computer system, such as a personalcomputer, server or other computer system.

In various embodiments of the present invention, one or more lightprograms are used to control both the color and intensity of lightemitted from one or more arrays of light emitting diode (LED) lights. Inone embodiment, light color and intensity may be measured in an outdoorsetting over the course of a day from morning to evening. Both thecolor, as measured on a Kelvin temperature scale, and a photometer areused to digitally measure light color and intensity over the course ofthe day. In one embodiment, several such days are recorded. Seven daysworth of such light days may be recorded in one embodiment and thenserially or randomly used to control the LED lights in an indoor space,such as an office. Such days may include clouds, such as cumulus cloudsdrifting across the sun, adding more variety and comfort to the lightpattern experienced by occupants of the indoor space.

In one embodiment, the intensity of the light may be maintained at adesired sufficient level to facilitate office work. A threshold may beset to override periods when the recorded day that may dip below thethreshold. For instance, a thick cloud may obscure a significant amountof sunlight, bringing the light intensity during playback of therecording to a level below a desired level and interfere with working.The threshold may be used to increase the brightness, modify the color,or both, to ensure a level of light that does not interfere with work.The threshold may further be adjusted to levels that promote a feelingof well being, while remaining above an ergonomically acceptable level.

The changes in light level in one embodiment, may be fairly subtle sothat it is usually only subconsciously apparent. By removing extremes,the changes in light are not annoying, but rather may have a calming orrelaxing effect on humans.

Kelvin temperature is a numerical measurement that describes the colorappearance of the light produced by a light source, and the colorappearance of the light source itself, expressed on the Kelvin (K)scale.

In application, the Kelvin temperature of light sources is used tocategorize them as warm, neutral or cool sources. The terms are notdirectly related to temperature; instead, they describe how the lightsource appears visually. Warm sources actually have a lower colortemperature (3500K or less), producing a red-yellow appearance similarto natural morning light. Neutral sources (between 3500K and 4100K) tendto have a yellow appearance. A light source with a color temperature of5000K is considered pure white light (Full Spectrum) with the lampbecoming more blue in color as the color temperature is increased.

Warm light sources are traditionally used for applications where warmcolors or earth tones dominate the environment, and where there is aneed to impart a feeling of comfort, coziness and relaxation. Cool lightsources (5000K to 7000K+) provide a white light, similar to fulldaylight. In prior lighting arrangements, such white light has beenassociated with increased productivity and reduced errors within anoffice environment.

An example lighting system is illustrated in block form in FIG. 13 at1300. A light fixture, such as a light emitting diode (LED) array 1310contains sets of LEDs adapted to emit at least two different colors oflight. In one example embodiment, the colors correspond to approximatelygreater than 3000K, generally yellow, and approximately less than 7000K,generally white. The actual Kelvin values may vary in differentembodiments to better approximate desired colors. Values above about3000K generally are yellow, with some red. They may be referred to asbeing warm colors. Values less that about 7000K generally are white, andalso contain some blue, and are referred to as corresponding to coolcolors.

While most of the description herein refers to LEDs, other lights nowknown or hereafter discovered that produce different colors may also beused. In one embodiment, by controlling the intensity of each colorlight, a light of about 5000K produces a white light that isadvantageous for highway lighting. A range of about 4000K to 4500Kproduces a slightly yellower light, which may be used to provide asofter light useful for lighting a streetscape (the appearance or viewof a street) which is antique in style. The lighting may be controlledto produce a desired color and intensity for creating different lightingconditions suitable for the design of street and buildings beinglighted. It provides a flexible tool for setting hues of light to matcha desired atmosphere for the design or streetscaping of the street andbuildings.

A controller 1320 is operatively coupled to fixture 1310, and controlsboth the intensity of the sets of LEDs, and also allows selection of arange of colors, by increasing or decreasing the relative intensity ofeach of the different colors of lights. In one embodiment, controller1320 has one or more day programs to replicate the color and intensityof outside light during one or more typical or desired days. Thecontroller 1320 may be coupled to a computer 1325 in one embodiment tofacilitate downloading of day programs, user generated programs, and toallow selection of a day program to run, or in further embodiments, maycycle through several day programs over the course of a week or more. Insome embodiments, it is desirable not to repeat a five day sequence oflighting each week, but rather to vary it from week to week to avoidmonotonous repetition. Having more than five days of recording orprogramming, or including randomness to the selection of a program foreach day or week may further enhance the effectiveness of the lighting.

A switch 1330 may be provided to turn the fixture 1310 on and off aswith a standard lighting system. Power is indicated at 1340, and may becoupled to the grid, or other power source as desired.

In one embodiment, the fixture 1310 comprises a matrix of socketscoupled to a circuit board as described above with respect to FIGS.1-12. The circuit board may support the controller 1320 which is coupledto multiple circuits for controlling LEDs for different color. In oneembodiment, a first circuit may correspond to control of white LEDmodules, and a second circuit may control yellow LED modules. Stillfurther, a third circuit may be used for driving all the LED modules.The controller may thus control Kelvin color by balancing between yellowand white led. With an additional photo sensor, the controller 1320 maycontrol dimming as a function of brightness of day, and also provideon/off control.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method 1400 of collection data toform one or more day programs. In one embodiment, data is captured at1410 using a Kelvin meter and a photometer to capture both the color oflight and the intensity of the light. The data may be captured in anoutdoor location over the course of a day. The data may include changescaused by the sun changing its angle in the sky, from low during themorning, producing warmer color tones to mid day, with commensuratelyhigher intensity and cooler color tones, to late afternoon, againproducing warmer color tones and lower intensity. The data may alsoinclude changes due to different clouds moving past the sun, producingsomewhat random changes to warmer, lower intensity periods as a cloudpasses. Several different days of data may be collected to form manydifferent programs. In one embodiment, seven such programs may be formedfrom different days of collected data.

In further embodiments, a program may be generated by a person, or fromrandom events. Different types of cloud passings may be recorded, andused randomly in the generation of such programs and overlayed on datacorresponding to a typical cloudless day. In one embodiment, duringplayback, cloud passings may be played back to appear as a cloud movingoverhead in a room. The LED modules may be controlled individually or ingroups to give the appearance of the cloud passing by the sun andpartially obscuring light from the sun. The cloud may appear to progressfrom one side of the room to the other. Many such cloud passings may berecorded during a day being recorded. As indicated above, if a cloud istoo thick such that it obscures too much light, a minimum threshold forboth intensity and color may be used to ensure the program providesadequate light for a work environment at all times. Similarly, a maximumintensity threshold may be used to ensure that the light does not becometoo bright during playback. In some embodiments, care may be taken toensure that mostly sunny days are recorded, as a cloudy day may notprovide relaxing variations in light as compared to days with occasionalclouds passing by the sun. In further embodiments, a desired color ortemperature range may also be maintained by providing minimum andmaximum temperature thresholds for control of the lights. Many othermethods of generating programs may also be used to create simulateddaylight programs.

At 1420, the data may be converted to control signals for the controllerto use in controlling light. The control signals may include anintensity for each color of light in order to control the overall colorof light and an overall intensity for a selected period of time. In oneembodiment, the selected period of time may be varied from severalseconds or minutes, to less than a second.

At 1430, the control signals are loaded into the controller 1320. A setof control signals corresponding to a desired day is selected at 1440,such as by running them in sequence, or as selected by a user, and thesignals are executed.

In a further embodiment, multiple Kelvin meters and photometers may beused to collect light over a space consistent with a space to be lit. Inother words, if a room with a certain area is to be lit by multiplefixtures, such as LED arrays or panels, meters may be placed in the samepattern as the fixtures will be arranged. A day program may thus consistof a separate program for each of the fixtures corresponding to thecaptured data at positioned correlated with the respective fixtures.Thus, a cloud moving past the sun will result in each of the differentfixtures being controlled slightly differently at the same time,producing a more realistic feeling of being outdoors.

In still further embodiments, the sensors may be collecting data in realtime, and the resulting program being provided directly to thecontroller to control lighting conditions such that they track thedaylight variations occurring. In one embodiment, the sensors may belocated just outside an office or other space having a window, such thatthe lighting within the room is controlled to track the conditionsvisible outside the room with as little delay as possible. Digital datacollection, computing and data transfer capabilities allow forcollection of data and execution of the resulting program with verylittle delay, such that the delay is not perceivable to an occupant.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method 1500 of running programs inthe controller in an example embodiment. The control signals are read at1510. If the overall intensity is less than a threshold, the intensityis set to the threshold, or another value above the threshold if desiredat 1520. The overall color of the light need not be modified unless theintensity is still too low, in which case one of the colors is alreadyat maximum, and the other color LEDs need to be increased in intensity.The threshold may be selected to ensure proper lighting per regulatoryrequirements, or as otherwise desired according to personal or ergonomicrecommendations. The threshold may be selected via computer 1325 in oneembodiment, or a control may be provided at the switch 1330 or someother controller, such as a remote control (also represented withreference number 1325), which may also be used to override programmingto provide either a different program, or a constant intensity of lightat a selected color. In a further embodiment, a high intensity thresholdis set to ensure that light intensity does not exceed a desired level.In one embodiment, the light intensity of a program may be normalized orotherwise adjusted between a desired high and low level to ensure thatproper working conditions are maintained for the duration of the dayprogram.

At 1530, the fixture 1310 is controlled to the color and intensityidentified in the day program for the selected period of time. Asindicated, the overall intensity is a function of the combination oflight produced from each set of different colored LEDs. At 1540,following the predetermined period of time, a next set of controlsignals is read from the day program and executed.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an array 1600 of fixtures 1610. Eachfixture is controlled by a controller 1620. A master controller 1620 maybe used to control each fixture 1610, or in a further embodiment, eachfixture 1610 has its own controller synchronized with the othercontrollers. In one embodiment, controller 1620 runs a day program thatincludes individual control signals for each of the fixtures. Suchindividual control signals may be formed from data collected frommultiple meters as described in an alternative embodiment with respectto FIG. 14. Thus, the array of fixtures will more accurately simulate aday outside. In a further embodiment, a single control signals isprovided in the day program, but it may be staggered by the controllersuch that it is applied in a manner that approximates events, such ascloud passings. For instance, the control signals may be staggered suchthat it is delayed between a first fixture or set of fixtures and a lastfixture or set of fixtures in an array a matter of seconds or less. Thedelay may be varied significantly in further embodiments.

With the lighting system embodiments described, lighting can be made tocause a drifting effect sensation as if clouds were actually passingacross the ceiling of an office from one fixture to the next, causinggentle movement of the light intensity at the same time the Kelvin colorof the light is changing from a yellower color in the morning to itspeak brightness of white in the middle of the day, when natural sunlightis strongest. As the day progresses toward evening, more yellow colorappears again. Many subtle changes in the quality of the light providestress relief that a human may need to feel comfortable in theworkplace. It has been only one hundred years or so that humans havespent the majority of our day inside, under artificial light that wasdevised to take the sun's place and extend our day. It has been tens ofthousands of years that humans have spent under the sun, geneticallydeveloping in accordance with the changes that occur in outdoor lightingconditions. Modifying indoor lighting to match or simulate such outdoordaylight conditions may be better suited to the evolved human.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1700 of controlling thearray of fixtures 1610 in accordance with programs in the controller inan example embodiment. The control signals are read at 1710. If theoverall intensity is less than a threshold, the intensity is set to thethreshold, or another value above the threshold if desired at 1720. Theoverall color of the light need not be modified unless the intensity isstill too low, in which case one of the colors is already at maximum,and the other color LEDs need to be increased in intensity. Thethreshold may be selected to ensure proper lighting per regulatoryrequirements, or as otherwise desired according to personal or ergonomicrecommendations. The threshold may be selected via computer 1325 in oneembodiment, or a control may be provided at the switch 1330 or someother controller, such as a remote control (also represented withreference number 1325), which may also be used to override programmingto provide either a different program, or a constant intensity of lightat a selected color.

At 1730, the fixtures 1610 are controlled to the color and intensityidentified in the day program for the selected period of time. Asindicated, the overall intensity is a function of the combination oflight produced from each set of different colored LEDs, and as eitherrecorded by an array of sensors, or staggered between fixtures 1610 asdescribed above. At 1740, following the predetermined period of time, anext set of control signals is read from the day program and executed.

In one embodiment, each fixture 1610 may have multiple color LEDs thatare independently controllable. In further embodiments, an array offixtures 410 may be used, with each fixture array 1610 having LEDs thatemit a single color. The fixtures may then be interspersed withdifferent color fixtures 1610, and controlled such that the overallarray provides the desired color and intensity of light according to aday program.

In one embodiment, a photometer may be used to measure the intensity oflight emitted from the fixtures to provide a feedback signal to accountfor a subtle decrease in intensity of LEDs or other types of lights inthe fixtures over their life. Thus, even though the LEDs are aging andproducing less light, the light provided by them is still in accordancewith the programming. If the LEDs cannot produce the desired intensity,an indication may be provided to inform that one or more LEDs may needreplacing.

A block diagram of a computer system that executes programming forperforming one or more of the above algorithms and allowing networkingis shown in FIG. 18. A general computing device in the form of acomputer 1810, may include a processing unit 1802, memory 1804,removable storage 1812, and non-removable storage 1814. Memory 1804 mayinclude volatile memory 1806 and non-volatile memory 1808. Computer 1810may include—or have access to a computing environment that includes—avariety of computer-readable media, such as volatile memory 1806 andnon-volatile memory 1808, removable storage 1812 and non-removablestorage 1814. Computer storage includes random access memory (RAM), readonly memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) &electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flashmemory or other memory technologies, compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), Digital Versatile Disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage,magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or othermagnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of storingcomputer-readable instructions. Computer 1810 may include or have accessto a computing environment that includes input 1816, output 1818, and acommunication connection 1820. The computer may operate in a networkedenvironment using a communication connection to connect to one or moreremote computers. The remote computer may include a personal computer(PC), server, router, network PC, a peer device or other common networknode, or the like. The communication connection may include a Local AreaNetwork (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN) or other networks.

Computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium areexecutable by the processing unit 1802 of the computer 1810. A harddrive, CD-ROM, and RAM are some examples of articles including acomputer-readable medium.

Networked Lighting for Maintenance

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a light fixture 1900, that includesmultiple LED lights 1910, and a transceiver 1920. As described abovewith respect to FIGS. 1-12, the light fixture may include a circuitboard having multiple sockets with LED modules (lights 1910), as well ascircuits using flexible wire connections to provide power and control tothe modules. In one embodiment, the LED modules may be formed of Nichichips that provide 100 lumens per watt, model number NS6WO83B. Thetransceiver 1920 may be supported on the circuit board, such as a silverpcb board, and may include control functions for controlling themodules, which may include different color lights 1910 to providedesired colors and intensity of lighting to facilitate streetscaping orother goals to be accomplished by lighting.

In one embodiment, each light 1910 is coupled to a circuit 1930 thatreceives power for the light and is capable of passing power to a nextlight to bypass a burned out or inoperative light. Further, the circuits1930 are coupled to each other via one or more busses 1935 to pass anindication that an associated light, such as an LED module, isinoperative. The indications are received by transceiver 1920, whichcontains logic and a communication protocol to transmit informationindicating that a light is inoperative. An ID may be stored at 1940 forinclusion in the transmitted information. The ID for the light fixture1900 may be used to uniquely identify each light fixture 1900 fromseveral to several thousand or more light fixtures being maintained.

In one embodiment, the transceiver 1920 is operable to receivetransmitted information from other transceivers 1920 being maintained,and pass the received information to a series of other transceivers infurther light fixtures being maintained. The transceiver 1920 mayutilize RF, WIFI or other communication protocols.

In one embodiment, the information is accumulated at a centralcontroller 1950. Central controller 1950 accumulates the transmittedinformation and may be used to generate a list of light fixtures needinglights replaced. In one embodiment, the ID information of the lightfixtures is correlated to a specific location for the light fixture andmay also be correlated with the types of lights needing replacement,such as different color LEDs in module form. The central controller 1950may provide the list of light fixtures with corresponding lights neededto be replaced at each light fixture. The list may be in electronic formor printed form. In electronic form, it may be viewed on a hand helddevice which may also be used to navigate to the corresponding lightfixture. The list may be ordered for efficient routes to follow inperforming maintenance.

In one embodiment, the particular light needing replacement within thefixture may be identified, allowing easy identification on site, withouthaving to inspect the lights in the light fixture in an attempt todetermine which light needs to be replaced. Such attempts may haveinvolved turning on the light fixture, and wearing sunglasses or otherprotective eyewear to view the very bright LEDs to determine thelocation of the inoperative LED.

FIG. 20 is a block circuit diagram of an example circuit 1930. In oneembodiment, bus 1935 includes a power line 2010, a ground line 2030, anda communications line 2020. The communications line is coupled to acommunications module 2040, which in one embodiment contains informationidentifying a location of the light 1910 to which the circuit 1930 isattached. Communications module 2040 is coupled to a supply anddetection module 2050, which in coupled to power the light via lines2060 and 2070. The detection module decouples the light from line 2060and 2070 when the light presents a short circuit so that other lights inthe light fixture may continue to receive power. Detection module 2050indicates to communications module 2040 that the light is inoperative,either by detection of a short, or an open circuit, or otherwiseinappropriate power demands of the light 1910. In further embodiments,separate communication lines may be provided to each circuit 1930 suchthat logic within the transceiver can identify the location of aninoperative light by correlating one or more communication lines withlocations of the inoperative lights in the array of lights. Thissimplifies the circuitry further, decreasing overall costs of the lightfixture.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a remote control device 2100. Controldevice 2100 includes a transceiver 2110 that communicates directly witha local light fixture, or to the central controller, either directly, orthrough a network of light fixtures having transceivers as describedabove. The control device 2100 in one embodiment has a data entrydevices, such as keys or touchscreen 2120, that allows a user to selecta light fixture to control. A GPS unit may provide location information,which when provided to the central controller, causes the centralcontroller to display light fixture proximate the location of the remotecontrol device 2100.

The remote control device 2100 displays local light fixtures, andprovides an interface allowing the user to select a control program fora fixture, or otherwise control the relative intensities of the colorlights to obtain a desired color corresponding to a desired streetscapegoal.

FIGS. 22, 23, 24, and 25 illustrate an LED light module 2200 having acylindrical body portion 2210 with a compressible washer 2215 that maybe formed of rubber or other compressible material. Part of the washer2215 may be formed with an opening to increase the amount of compressionprovided when the module 2200 is inserted into a fixture. Body portion2210 may be formed of metal, such as aluminum or other heat conductingmaterials, and may have a heat sink portion 2220 formed on one end. Theheat sink portion 2220 may be formed with fins 2222 or other structuresto facilitate conduction of heat away from an LED supported by themodule 2200 at the same end.

A second end of the body portion 2200 may include a foot 2225 spacedapart from the body portion and at least partially formed of anelectrically insulating material. Foot 2225 is formed in an oval shapein one embodiment, with contacts 2230 positioned at both ends of theoval shape. The contacts extend to the side of the foot that is notshown, but is facing the compressible washer 2215. When the foot 2225 isinserted and into a bar of a matrix 2310 (in FIG. 23) and twisted intoposition, it compresses the washer 2215 against a portion of the bar,bringing the contacts into good electrical connection with powercontacts 2310 in the bar to supply power to the module 2200. Conductors2235 may be coupled to the contacts and fed through an opening in thefoot back through the body portion to supply power to the LED. A furthersealing washer 2240 may be provided on the body portion between thewasher 2215 and the foot 2225 to form a weather tight seal against asocket in the matrix 2310 in further embodiments.

The module is inserted in the socket on the bar of the matrix, thenturned into position as to align the contact points to a given circuit.The pressure on the contact points is developed from the compression ofthe weather sealing washer of the module, pulling in an outward manner,pulling out on the backside surface of the bar, sandwiching the barbetween the foot of the module, and the inside of the matrix plate barassembly creating extensive pressure on the contact points, resulting inreliable electrical contact through much expansion and contraction ofthe fixture in time.

FIG. 24 illustrates a lighting fixture 2400 showing several lightmodules installed on multiple bars of a matrix. FIG. 25 is a topperspective view of light fixture 2400. Light figure 2400 in oneembodiment is designed as an outdoor light fixture for outdoor lightingof large surface areas, and may be used as a street light or parkingarea light, as well as in many other outdoor applications. Holes 2510may be provided to facilitate air circulation to convectively cool themodules in one embodiment. The modules are easily replaceable and haveno moving parts in one embodiment.

Adendum including various statements related different inventionsdescribed in this application. While referred to as claims, they are notmeant to be examined at this time, but to provide support for claims infurther application.

Outdoor Statements:

1. A light fixture comprising:

a matrix;

a circuit board supported by the matrix;

a plurality of electrical sockets fixedly coupled to the matrix andforming a matrix of electrical sockets, wherein the circuit board hasconductors between the sockets to provide one or more sets of seriesconnections of the sockets;

a detection circuit associated with each socket to detect inoperativelight emitting diode modules; and

a transmitter coupled to the detection circuits for transmittinginformation identifying an array as having at least one inoperativelight emitting diode plugged into a socket.

2. The light fixture of claim 1 wherein the light emitting diodescomprise modules for removable connection to the sockets

3. The light fixture of claim 1 wherein the transmitter includes areceiver to receive communications from other light fixture transmittersand forward such communications.

4. The light fixture of claim 1 wherein the transmitter includes a lightfixture ID in transmitted information.

5. The light fixture of claim 1 wherein the sockets are electricallycoupled via the circuit board in a desired pattern.

6. A method of maintaining light fixtures, the method comprising:

identifying a high intensity light emitting diode that needs replacingin a light fixture having a high volume light emitting diode lightingarray having a plurality of electrical sockets supported by a matrix andforming a matrix of electrical sockets;

obtaining an ID of the light fixture; and

transmitting the ID and an indication that a light emitting diode needsreplacing, wherein the ID uniquely identifies the light fixture and hasan associated location of the light fixture.

7. The method of claim 6 wherein transmitting further comprisestransmitting the location of the light emitting diode in the lightfixture that needs replacing.

8. The method of claim 6 and further comprising providing power tosockets following a socket that has a light emitting diode that needsreplacing.

9. A method of maintaining light fixtures having arrays of lightemitting diodes, the method comprising:

receiving communications from multiple light fixtures identifying thelight fixtures;

correlating the light fixtures to physical locations of the lightfixtures; and

providing a list of physical locations needing light emitting diodesreplaced.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein the communications identify a locationwithin the a light fixture of the light emitting diode that needsreplacing.

11. The method of claim 10 wherein the list provides an identificationof the location within a light fixture of the light emitting diode thatneeds replacing.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein the list provides an indication ofthe type of light emitting diode to be replaced at each light fixture.

Module Statements:

1. A high intensity light emitting diode module for a high intensitylight array, the module comprising:

a high intensity light emitting diode;

a heat sink thermally coupled to the high intensity light emittingdiode;

a pair of contacts coupled to the light emitting diode, each contact formatting with corresponding contacts on an electrical connection boardhaving an array of contacts forming a high intensity light array toproduce a large volume of light;

a socket thermally coupled to the heat sink; and

a sealing element adapted to be compressed against a portion of thesocket to provide a sealed electrical contact with the electricalconnection board when the pair of contacts are mated with thecorresponding contacts on the electrical connection board.

2. The high intensity light emitting diode module of claim 1 wherein thepair of contacts coupled to the light emitting diode contact thecorresponding contacts by twisting the module into the socket.

3. The high intensity light emitting diode module of claim 1 and furthercomprising a guide coupled to the high intensity light emitting diodeadapted to fit with a mating guide coupled to the electrical connectionboard to align the contacts of the light emitting diode with thecontacts on the electrical connection board.4. The high intensity light emitting diode module of claim 1 wherein thesealing element comprises a compressible ring that provides a watertight seal with the socket when the module contacts are mated with theelectrical connection board. sealing the electrical connection fromoutside elements.5. The high intensity light emitting diode module of claim 4 wherein thecompressible ring comprises an O-ring or a flat washer.6. An array of high intensity light emitting diode modules, the arraycomprising:

a matrix;

a circuit board supported by the matrix;

a plurality of electrical sockets fixedly coupled to the matrix andforming a matrix of electrical sockets, wherein the circuit board hasconductors between the sockets to provide one or more sets of seriesconnections of the sockets such that light emitting diode modulesremovably connected to all the sockets in a set cause a desired voltagedrop, and wherein the sockets provide a pair of contacts for each moduleto sealingly retain each module in a water tight electrical connectionwith the socket.

7. The array of claim 6 wherein the sockets are electrically coupled viathe circuit board in a desired pattern.

8. The array of claim 6 wherein the sets of series connected socketshave 10 or more sockets in each set.

9. The array of claim 6 wherein the sets of series connected socketshave a number of sockets in them equal to a supply voltage divided by avoltage drop per module.

10. An array of high intensity light emitting diode modules for highvolume light applications, the array comprising:

a matrix;

a circuit board supported by the matrix;

a plurality of electrical sockets fixedly coupled to the matrix andforming a matrix of electrical sockets, wherein the circuit board hasconductors between the sockets to provide one or more sets of seriesconnections of the sockets such that light emitting diode modulesremovably connected to all the sockets in a set cause a desired voltagedrop, and wherein the circuit board provides a pair of contacts for eachmodule and sealingly retain each module in a water tight electricalconnection with the socket, and wherein each module comprises:

-   -   a high intensity light emitting diode;    -   a heat sink thermally coupled to the high intensity light        emitting diode;    -   a pair of contacts coupled to the light emitting diode, each        contact having a portion shaped to electrically couple with        corresponding contacts on an electrical connection board; and    -   a sealing element adapted to be compressed against a socket to        provide a sealed electrical contact with the electrical        connection board when the pair of contacts are electrically        coupled to the corresponding contacts on the electrical        connection board, such that each module in the array of modules        is replaceable.        11. The array of claim 10 wherein the array comprises a        sufficient number of diode modules for large area outdoor        lighting.        12. The array of claim 10 wherein the larger area outdoor        lighting comprises parking lots, parking ramps, highways,        streets, stores, warehouses, gas station canopies.        13. A high intensity light emitting diode module for a high        intensity light array, the module comprising:

a high intensity light emitting diode;

a heat sink thermally coupled to the high intensity light emittingdiode;

a socket thermally coupled to the heat sink;

a pair of contacts coupled to the light emitting diode, each contacthaving a portion shaped to electrically couple with correspondingcontacts on an electrical connection board having an array of contactsforming a high intensity light array to produce a large volume of light;

a sealing element adapted to be compressed against a portion of thesocket to provide a sealed electrical contact with the electricalconnection board when the pair of contacts are electrically coupled withthe corresponding contacts on the electrical connection board.

The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) to allow thereader to quickly ascertain the nature and gist of the technicaldisclosure. The Abstract is submitted with the understanding that itwill not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A light fixture comprising: a matrix; a circuitboard supported by the matrix; a plurality of electrical sockets fixedlycoupled to the matrix and forming a matrix of electrical sockets,wherein the circuit board has conductors between the sockets to provideone or more sets of series connections of the sockets; a detectioncircuit associated with each socket to detect inoperative light emittingdiode modules; and a transmitter coupled to the detection circuits fortransmitting information identifying an array as having at least oneinoperative light emitting diode plugged into a socket.
 2. The lightfixture of claim 1 wherein the light emitting diodes comprise modulesfor removable connection to the sockets.
 3. The light fixture of claim 1wherein the transmitter includes a receiver to receive communicationsfrom other light fixture transmitters and forward such communications.4. The light fixture of claim 1 wherein the transmitter includes a lightfixture ID in transmitted information.
 5. The light fixture of claim 1wherein the sockets are electrically coupled via the circuit board in adesired pattern.
 6. A method of maintaining light fixtures, the methodcomprising: identifying a high intensity light emitting diode that needsreplacing in a light fixture having a high volume light emitting diodelighting array having a plurality of electrical sockets supported by amatrix and forming a matrix of electrical sockets; obtaining an ID ofthe light fixture; and transmitting the ID and an indication that alight emitting diode needs replacing, wherein the ID uniquely identifiesthe light fixture and has an associated location of the light fixture.7. The method of claim 6 wherein transmitting further comprisestransmitting the location of the light emitting diode in the lightfixture that needs replacing.
 8. The method of claim 6 and furthercomprising providing power to sockets following a socket that has alight emitting diode that needs replacing.
 9. A method of maintaininglight fixtures having arrays of light emitting diodes, the methodcomprising: receiving communications from multiple light fixturesidentifying the light fixtures; correlating the light fixtures tophysical locations of the light fixtures; and providing a list ofphysical locations needing light emitting diodes replaced.
 10. Themethod of claim 9 wherein the communications identify a location withina light fixture of the light emitting diodes that need replacing. 11.The method of claim 10 wherein the list provides an identification ofthe location within a light fixture of the light emitting diodes thatneed replacing.
 12. The method of claim 11 wherein the list provides anindication of the type of light emitting diodes to be replaced at eachlight fixture.